What Does a Massage Therapist Do?

Massage therapists are trained to work with muscles and connective tissue: all the “soft tissues” of the body. They are specialists in assessment, prevention and treatment of soft tissue dysfunctions. Massage therapy also benefits the nervous system, and can be used to reduce or prevent stress-related and some neurological conditions, especially when there are soft-tissue symptoms.

Massage therapists in Ontario are regulated health care professionals, and have extensive training in anatomy, physiology, pathology, biomechanics, assessment, and treatment. Ontario massage therapists must continue training in advanced techniques throughout their career, and they are regularly assessed by the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario (http://www.cmto.com) to make sure their practice meets provincial requirements for high professional standards, accurate record-keeping, and quality client care.

Many people use massage therapy to prevent problems before they develop, as well as to help heal once they occur. From taking a moment of relaxation as an antidote to daily stress, to getting relief from muscle tension or chronic pain, massage therapy can enhance your well-being on all levels from the physical to the mental, emotional and spiritual.